Phillipsburg Defeats Easton, 11-1

It was Phillipsburg’s night as the Stateliners played a non-division match against the Red Rovers. Justin Souders led off for Easton, pitching in front of the biggest crowd either team has seen all year. (Hackett's Park , the venue - paired with the historical rivalry - typically brings out more fans.)

The first was big for P'burg: a 2 RBI single, a 3 RBI triple, and then P'burg's Anthony Ciavallera hit a 2 RBI home run in the first. The inning closed with a 8-0 score. Phillipsburg continued to play aggressively, risking to steal bases. The tactic put runners in scoring position, and the game was called at the end of the fifth in accordance with the 10-run rule.

“We’ve been hitting the ball for about a week now. We scored eight runs early and kind of put it away there. I’m just proud of the guys. We came ready to play. Nice big win,” said Phillipsburg coach Dave Hinkle following the game.

For Easton, Dominic Mancuso relieved Souders in the first. J.J. Jordan threw for the fifth and final inning of the game. Easton’s run was scored by Connor Mulrine, who energized his teammates: “Every little bit! Every little bit!” Chipping away at the eight run lead was the plan, but Easton did not overcome; four errors and lack of hits contributed to Easton's early loss. Kevin Nemeth singled; Mulrine had a stolen base.

Easton has three games scheduled this week, and will meet Northampton tomorrow afternoon (Monday.)